Scholastic Intervention Solutions

Everybody has uniqueness. However, even though you were never diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD as a child), you may assume that you have the condition if you’ve discovered that your way of thinking, emotions, or desired behavior isn’t entirely normal. You may appear like the people around you regarding body language and sign language, interpersonal abilities, actions, habits, or general preferences. Or you may see the same way that problems affect your behavior.

 

The concept of neurodiversity, that some persons have cognitive variances and that such variations should be cherished rather than “corrected,” has gained popularity over the past few decades. Even so, receiving an adult autism diagnosis might be unwelcome news. You might even feel anxious or in disbelief about the diagnosis. However, an official diagnosis can be relieving if you’ve long believed that you have autism spectrum disorder or another illness that makes you different from other people your age. You might see that you have clarity; many of your previous encounters and experiences make sense.

Remember that you have individual talents and limitations, just like everyone, regardless of how a medical diagnosis or assessment makes you feel. You can always go further in your personal development to better understand your own ideas and actions.

Even if you limit the diagnosis to “high functioning” autism, there is still a large spectrum of symptoms associated with autism. Adults with autism typically exhibit symptoms primarily in their conversational skills, interests, emotional and personality traits, and hypersensitivity to touch and noise.

Nonverbal Cues And Symptoms Of Autism In Adults

Narrow Interests

Everybody is interested in different things. However, adults with ASD frequently narrow their interests to one or two very exciting topics. For example, you may know everything there is to know about a significant incident in history or television series. You may occasionally appear “in your own world” and incapable of hearing others around you. Any deviation from your usual behavior can make you act emotionally, as you frequently give off the impression of being aloof and uninterested in anything.

Although it’s often fascinating to others, it could make you feel like you can only add so much to discussions outside your areas of expertise. Connecting and communicating with others who don’t share your interests is difficult or tiresome. It may even cause you to shy away from social situations in different settings.

 

Repetitive Behavior

Autism speaks out symptoms, but you can feel safer and in control of your life if you stick to a routine or keep things tidy. Fixing sleep disturbances, learning new skills, and working on the best of your day to day life. When your usual routine and practices are disturbed, such as when you have to take a different way to go to work or when someone moves your items, which are now out of place, you could feel uncomfortable. Your level of upset or unhappiness could lead to an intense emotional outburst, like rage.

“Lower-order” motor repetitions include self-stimulation, shaking hands, twirling, repetitive phrase repetition, object manipulation, toy banging, and button pushing. Frequently, self-stimulation is one of the main causes of repetitive behavior. A certain setting, sound, or circumstance may overwhelm and intimidate you if you have sensory problems, making it tough to handle.

Problems With Communication

You may find it challenging to understand social signals if you are an adult with communication issues or, specifically with ASD. Because of this, it might be challenging to carry on back-and-forth talks or discern another person’s emotions. It can include anything from their tone of voice to how they make gestures or facial expressions. You may particularly find it difficult to spot figures of speech and sarcasm.

It might also be challenging for people to understand your feelings and thoughts if you speak in a deadpan or monotonous tone or produce a few facial gestures. Also, making eye contact could be another crucial social indicator you find difficult to use. Maybe someone has informed you that you gaze or look away from discussions too frequently or that you get frustrated by things like, for instance, making repetitive, involuntary noises in gatherings like clearing your throat.

Sensory Issues

With autism spectrum disorders, you may exhibit both hyper- and hyposensitivity (under-reactivity) to a variety of stimuli. Most people combine the two in some way. Hypersensitivity to brightly colored light or specific light wavelengths (e.g., fluorescent or LED) is also common. With ASD, you may find some feelings intolerable. If somebody touches or taps your arm, you can get hurt. For instance, some sounds, odors, or textures could cause an uncomfortable pivotal response treatment. In certain situations, you could use every effort to prevent such discomfort.

It might be challenging for you as an autistic person to organize and comprehend information from your senses of touch, taste, and hearing, smell. High levels of stress and anxiety and even painful or frightening sensory experiences can result in meltdowns. That explains why most experts recommend you to always see yourself stay relaxed.

Difficulty Regulating Basic Emotions

Finding a space where you may practice emotional regulation is half the battle for an autistic person like you. Such actions frequently attract notice, inquiries, remarks, and much misunderstanding. It might be difficult for you to recognize, comprehend, and describe their feelings. Additionally, you could find it difficult to express or feel reactions deemed suitable in social situations, like excitement on a happy occasion.

Others may struggle with problem-solving because of rigid thinking. If the initial strategy needs to be changed, this may make it challenging for some autistic people to come up with a fresh one, which can heighten tension and worry. Recognize the unique effects that autism has on you or every other individual. Genetics, personality, upbringing, and external circumstances such as hunger or fatigue are the main determinants of an individual’s capacity to control negative emotions.

Types Of Therapy For Autism

Several autism therapies are available to help children and adults with autism. Individual recommendations for occupational therapy treatment may differ according to age, needs, personality, and skill level. Many physiological and mental health issues can coexist with autism. Collaboration between therapy providers and patients can be helpful in many of these cases.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysis, is the most widely used psychotherapy for kids with autism. It uses relevant incentives, appropriate punishments, and positive behaviors reinforcement to help autistic youngsters acquire social and nonverbal skills, increase their language proficiency, and boost good behavior. It promotes enhanced social skills, more effective expression and receptive communication, collaboration with others, and decreased unacceptable conduct.

Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)

With the help of this early intensive behavioral intervention, autistic children learn how to develop relationships with their family members and other relatives. This family-centered therapy incorporates interpersonal, psychological, and adaptable thinking techniques. Additionally, since adjustments can be especially challenging, kids with ASD learn to handle difficulties. The Rehabilitation and Development Institute (RDI) program includes discrete trial training and a primary therapist’s help.

 

Equestrian Therapy

Equestrian therapy, sometimes called therapeutic horseback riding, gives autistic youngsters the chance to ride horses in a secure setting. Both the youngster and the horse are under the therapist’s care. Therapeutic horseback riding has been shown to lessen hyperactivity and irritation while enhancing social and communication skills. Riders with autism may concentrate, believe, and accept training when horses calm them. Individuals with ASD also seemed to have enhanced posture, stability, and core endurance after using it.

Play Therapy

Play therapy for autism is different from play therapy for other medical conditions. When it comes to autism therapy, professional therapists are significantly more prescribing than they are for anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Through play therapy, autistic children can learn how to communicate with others in a manner that makes sense to them—through play. Individuals with autism have different social behaviors from regular people. For instance, a person with autism may focus only on one feature of a toy and rarely play pretend.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy may be helpful for those with autism, but it’s frequently not the best course of action for those with severe autism condition. Speech therapy may be most beneficial to higher functioning people and may help adults and children with ASD overcome social isolation. Sometimes, a combination of conditions necessitates speech autism treatment for an autistic person. In some cases, a therapy approach that addresses the illness itself, as well as autism, may be helpful.

Music Therapy

Music can help individuals who have autism become more engaged and attentive, even though they may have trouble focusing and paying attention to things that aren’t important to them. Listening to and connecting with others’ emotions can benefit those with autism. Music therapy promotes verbal behavior intervention communication or verbal skills and increases emotional intelligence through synchronized rhythm, collaborative attention, and motor imitation improvements. More research has shown that music can assist and treat autistic individuals in talking more fluently, developing greater creative and receptive communication abilities, and learning to identify objects in their surroundings.

Sensory Integration

The processing of sensory data can be impacted by autism, potentially leading to either excessive or insufficient stimulation of the senses. Unbelievably complex behaviors can be a result of sensory input. Through sensory integration, those with ASD may more effectively handle their sensory overload and take control of their sensory input. It is the method by which people arrange the information they get from their five senses, apply it to daily tasks, and utilize it to engage in them. There seem to be instances where this treatment plan or treatment goals can ease patients’ anxiety.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

In cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a popular kind of talk therapy, a psychological occupational therapist works with clients in a limited number of sessions that may last eight to twelve weeks, depending on the client’s needs. The cognitive method explains the capacity to create mental images of one’s own and other people’s inner emotional worlds. CBT helps people with autism to change their attitudes or actions to prevent unpleasant feelings. CBT consists of two primary components. People can alter their perspectives on situations and responses using the cognitive component.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Others Interactions With The Autistic Person Can Affect Them?

How Does Autism Affect Activities Of Daily Living?

How To Encourage An Autistic Individual When They Are Struggling?

How Do You Cope With Self Management Skills In Autism?

How positive behaviour can be encouraged using different approaches?
Can autistic people get better at social interaction?
What methods can be used to communicate with an autistic individual?
How does autism affect interpersonal relationships?
How autism can affect an individual’s acceptance of change?
Why individuals with autism find changes to routine distressing?
Do autistic people interact better with other autistic people?
Can autistic people communicate with each other?
How does autism affect communication in adults?
How do people with autism interact socially?
Why might autistic people benefit from having a routine?

If you have a spouse with autism, you can find it confusing and bothersome that your loved ones communicate in such a complicated way. Or a close friend misunderstands them, or you micromanage your spouse. You may become frustrated by your loved one’s rigid habits or fixations if they have autism. They may have offended you with their direct comments.

 

It’s normal for both parties in a romantic connection like this to wonder if it will last. Sometimes, the couple’s reactions serve to heighten tensions or fuel fears. For instance, following a disagreement, the autistic partner may become aloof and resentful, while the autistic partner may feel agitated and unheard. The healthy relationship grows tense as issues keep coming up.

It’s critical to keep in mind that dysfunctional relationship patterns can change over time. An autistic person can have a fulfilling friendship or romantic relationship. The secret is establishing a partnership based on understanding and a readiness to adjust and compromise.

Sustaining romantic physical intimacy, the relationship can present special interests and difficulties if you or a loved one has autism. However, it would be best if you don’t panic because there are plenty of strategies for building a more fulfilling partnership and maintaining eye contact.

Understanding Autism In The Relationship

According to American Psychiatric Association experts, autism is a neurological disorder that impairs a person’s perception of the environment and one’s social interaction. It is an illness that persists throughout life. The symptoms usually start to show in early childhood and may not go away as individuals age. A neurotypical person’s relationships, self-control, social skills, and non verbal communication skills can all be impacted by autism. Because of the diverse range of effects it can have on individuals, it is frequently described as a “spectrum condition.”

Even though everyone’s facial expressions and experience of love vary, autistic adults can have eye contact and develop strong emotional bonds. These may include affection for their friends, romantic partners, family, or even hobbies and interests. Since autistic individuals have different talents, difficulties, and sensory issues like sensory overload, they may convey their feelings of love in different ways. While it can be extremely difficult for some people to openly show special interest or show conventional social cues to convey their love, they can nevertheless show their affection and concern through their behaviors, hobbies, and unwavering support.

Nevertheless, as autism is a condition on the spectrum (like Asperger’s syndrome), each person’s experience and way of expressing love can be different. Relationships with autistic people can be inclusive and meaningful, allowing for the giving and receiving of love if these differences are recognized and accepted with practical solutions and a better coping mechanism.

The following suggestion is for managing a spouse who has autism spectrum disorder.

Have Empathy For How Your Spouse Processes The World

Your significant other could have a different perspective on events. They could find, for instance, that situations with a lot of noise or flashing lights are tiring. Remind yourself that your one partner isn’t “misbehaving” if they become uncomfortable or react badly; they are just being themselves. You can improve your relationship with your spouse if you make an effort to comprehend their preferences. Please pay attention to your spouse’s nonverbal cues because they may become unresponsive when overwhelmed or become unreliable communicators.

 

Respect Your Autistic Spouse’s Self-Sufficiency

Even while autism affects a neurotypical person and presents some difficulties, it doesn’t prevent individuals from caring for themselves and fix their low self esteem. Consider your spouse’s abilities instead of their interpersonal or cognitive shortcomings, such as poor communication or organizational skills. Focus on how they can manage their own timetable or maintain their employment. Fight the impulse to pitch in and assist with tasks. Your spouse will inform you if they have any requests for you. Recognize that you find some jobs or daily tasks simpler to complete than your spouse does, and make adjustments accordingly.

Respect Their Need To De-Stress

Compared to most individuals, your significant other will require more alone time. This has nothing to do with their affection for you or your relationship. They can relax and be their most effective selves when they get some quiet time. This calm moment needs to be spent alone sometimes. At certain times, they might get along well enough to engage in a quiet pastime like watching their preferred television program. Find out what they need immediately. They will require more alone time following social events or schedule adjustments. To ensure that you and your spouse can cherish this time together, prepare ahead of time. Additionally, find ways to relax, either as a group or on your own.

Discuss Your Spouse’s Boundaries And Preferences

Find out what your spouse needs from you by asking. Ask them to identify the foods they dislike, for instance, and then agree to eat dishes they will love. Additionally, ask them to set boundaries. Create a quiet area for them to go in the house if they request not to be disturbed while they’re feeling overwhelmed. Providing answers will enable you to build a fantastic system. Refrain from assuming anything about your partner and instead allow them to express their desires clearly. You both must express your desires for your relationship to be healthy. Avoid abruptly changing too much about your partner too soon.

Understand Your Spouse’s Everyday Struggles And Challenges

Keep an eye out for anything that stresses out your spouse who has autism because they could get anxious from routines or habits and social expectations. Observe how your spouse behaves throughout the day. Establishing a peaceful home dynamic for the two of you will be simpler as you become more acquainted with each other’s routines and triggers. Check to see if your partner needs rigid schedules. Tell them you’ll comply with their timetable if they get upset when routines are disturbed along with environmental factors.

Emotionally Support Your Spouse, Especially When They Need It

Recognize that adjusting to a non-autistic, or “allistic,” world can be difficult for your spouse. See whether your significant other experiences any mental or emotional health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Inquire about how their situations are affecting them as well. Reaffirm your support for your spouse and acknowledge their feelings. Your partner with autism will appreciate the encouragement even though they might not express it. Ensure that you are receiving emotional care for yourself as well, particularly if your spouse has a mental condition. Although your significant other might be able to help, you also need to make sure you have family and friends you can trust.

Do Not Force Your Spouse Outside Of Their Comfort Zones

To help your spouse learn how to self-regulate, let them maintain their daily routines and stimulation behaviors. Recognize that your spouse must prevent sensory input overload if you want to prevent meltdowns or shutdowns. Let your significant other decide when it’s time to try something different or break bad habits. Both partners must consider their individual needs for balance and interests for their marriage to be healthy. Change your spouse’s lifestyle if their behaviors are negatively affecting their well-being. Choose a dating activity you and your partner can enjoy based on a shared passion. Wait for your possible spouse to approach you at the appropriate time.

 

Embrace Your Spouse’s Interests And Talents

Engage in attentive listening whenever your significant other shows a strong interest in a topic. Show them appreciation for the time they take to thoroughly investigate a subject. Take note of your spouse’s skills as well. These could be anything from basic knowledge to athletic ability. Your spouse’s self-esteem will rise if you compliment and affirm them. If your spouse with autism talks a lot, take advantage of the chance to get to know them better. If your spouse has a particular passion for cooking, assist them in finding recipes they will love to prepare. Give your partner space to concentrate on anything, even if it’s not something they’re particularly interested in.

Support Your Spouse In Social Situations

When you see signs of trouble in your spouse when they’re out socializing, intervene and offer support. For instance, individuals can find it difficult to strike up a discussion, or others might need to understand how they speak. When this occurs, pay attention to everyone’s nonverbal cues, support your spouse, and shift the topic to divert attention. Ask colleagues and friends to guide you if you find it difficult to read body language. Your partner will be happy that you were able to resolve the issue. Pull your partner aside and let them determine whether something they say seems rude or harsh. When autistic persons realize how their words affect the people around them, the majority of them will apologize and feel regret.

Offer Your Spouse Self-Advocacy Resources.

As a non autistic partner, you need to find disability assistance services and accommodations for employment to lessen daily stress. Moreover, assist your spouse in selecting a professional counselor, therapist, or support group. Your significant other will be able to manage the everyday rigors with the support of your meticulous and loving research. For your neurotypical partner, you can also be a resource! All you need to do is support them in finding strategies to finish self-care chores. Seek individuals or groups that speak with dignity to locate secure areas and trustworthy communities.

Insight

Recognize that some individuals will form a meaningful friendship or a passionate relationship. Consider your conversations with your partner who has autism or Asperger syndrome. Recognize any unpleasant emotions that surface, such as grief or resentment, but try not to focus on the circumstances. It’s possible that you’re being rejected for petty reasons by the other person. Think about any possible issues that you need to address for a while.

Whether you’re attempting to establish new or preserve relationships, remember that individuals are complex, and there’s constantly more to discover. Continue to be curious about others around you. Spend time with people who are eager to understand you and your viewpoint. You have a lot to offer prospective friends and companions, so don’t worry.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Does Autism Affect Family Relationships?

Is It Hard To Live With Someone Who Has Autism?

How Does Autism Affect A Person’s Daily Life?

How Do You Live With An Autistic Person?

How Do Autistic People Deal With Relationships?

Can Autistic People Handle Relationships?

Why do autistic people struggle to maintain relationships?
How does the behaviour of others may impact an individual with autism?
How does autism impact social relationships?
How does autism affect social interactions and relationships with others?
How many autistic people get into relationships?
How do you communicate with an autistic partner?
How does autism affect marriage?
How do you know if your partner is on the spectrum?
Can people with autism love others?

Children or adults who are considered autistic see and understand the world differently. Their perception of things is quite out of the norm, and people usually think of them as special individuals.

Source: pixabay.com

All About Autism

Autism is not a disorder. Therefore, there is no cure for it. Autistic people are born with various degrees of neurodivergent traits. Meaning some of them have refined senses and use them to bring logic into their surroundings. Others seek repetitive behaviors, and these usually follow specific patterns.

Most of society often thinks that autistic people are dumb, slow learners, and unintelligent. That is perhaps due to a lot of autistic individuals struggling with severe learning disabilities and requiring an extended level of support in their everyday lives.

However, that is quite the opposite. The brain of these autistic individuals has a mild focus on a specific architecture. One side of the brain can access information more intelligently and can support an extreme ability and strong interest in particular areas.

Take the identification of a dog as an example. For most normal kids or adults in the world, the first thing that comes to mind is that a four-legged barking animal is considered a dog. There’s nothing wrong with that since that’s a fact.

However, autistic people organize information and categorize animals. They know a barking creature is a dog, but autistics identify them individually. Meaning they are more drawn into specific details. The particular autistic characteristic makes it difficult for them to generalize the information as they pay close attention to the objectives.

Source: pixabay.com

The Complexity Of The Brain

Autistic people’s brain processes and functions are incredibly complex, affecting how they experience things. They follow a rigid routine every day to help them limit their sensitivity to sensory input. It means that they hear more sounds than usual whenever they hear things.

But as much as they are keen on details, their struggle often starts when others simultaneously speak and create a sound. Autistic people can’t follow up on that. Thus, listening and understanding become way too challenging. They may hear everyone and know the words they utter, but they’ll never comprehend.

Another autistic characteristic is when they touch something and feel specific textures. Their sensitivity is heightened, and that makes eating an intense experience. Autistic people develop problems with eating when the smell or taste of their food is too much for them to handle.

Walking barefoot or playing in the dirt is similar in relation to touch. This sensitive experience often overwhelms autistic people’s brains and makes them question its significance to the world. Thus, autistic people look for patterns while finding answers to these experiences that force their brains to think more logically.

Source: pixabay.com

The Repetitive Behavior

Autistic people’s repetitive behavior is not a motor condition. Instead, it is a process they utilize to bring order to their ways of moving their body. The finger-flicking, arm or hand-flapping, spinning or twirling, repeating phrases, rocking, jumping, and head-banging are complexities they often do for stimulation.

In society’s attempt to understand autistic people’s ways, they assumed that their condition is an adaptive function. They thought that their routines were manageable and that autistics only use repetition to further understand what their brain is not gasping.

But that’s farther from the truth. Autistic individuals use repetitive behavior to soothe themselves. It is their way to relieve stress so that they can have a chance to at least follow a pattern while there is difficulty in predicting a specific event. They also take advantage of their behavior to regulate their emotions.

Source: pixabay.com

Social Disconnection

If you’re handling spouse with autism or dealing with your kid or loved ones disorder, autistic people may seem normal on the outside, but they always experience trouble connecting with others. Unlike what society thinks, autistic individuals know their condition and understand that social settings overpower their sensitivity and desire for order.

Autistic people are often hard to deal with, not because they are sensitive, but because even their emotions run incredibly complex that they also work with a predictable pattern. That explains why they often misread body language and social situations and, unfortunately, upset other people around them. They also have a hard time identifying facial reactions, which causes them an issue with communication and social interaction.

When these social misunderstandings happen, autistic people feel they are to blame. They believe the uncomfortability in the social setting is their fault. As a result, they avoid making eye-contacts or keep away from others in general and leave the premises whenever possible. Besides, they perceived the topics as irrelevant and often boring anyway.

Insights And takeaway

Autistic people are dealing with the condition that has no cure. So instead of treating them differently, society should learn how to accept that there are other people who think, act, and respond more unlikely than usual.

As much as these people require therapy to be welcomed into the world, why can’t society adjust and celebrate these individuals’ indifference instead? If you, or you know someone who is suffering from autism disorders, you may refer them to talk with a licensed professional for they can provide proper treatments for autism.

I have advocated for mental health, and my main focus is depression. However, due to a recent incident at a family gathering a week ago, I have decided to look more closely into this particular mental health state – autism.

The Unforgettable Family Reunion

It was a fun evening, and everyone enjoyed each other’s company. My family was having the best night of their lives as we celebrated my mom’s 84th birthday. My brothers and sisters were there with their husbands, wives, and kids. The adults were busy talking and drinking while the kids had fun playing and giggling.

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Suddenly, the party stopped when my older brother’s eldest son pushed my younger sister’s daughter. He was seven while she was 4. Everyone was stunned as a little girl bumped into one of the huge pots near the landscaped fountain. When she got up, her head was bleeding a lot.

The poor little girl must have felt the pain as she screamed and burst into tears.

Interestingly, my nephew did not seem bothered at all. He was standing there and staring at my niece while she screamed and cried. My younger sister rushed to her daughter and wiped some blood with her blouse. She said nothing, but her face told us a different reaction. She was scared for her little girl. I admire her for staying calm that time, actually.

My older brother went up to her and handed her a tissue. My sister thanked him and continued to clean the blood on my niece’s face. My brother’s wife went to get my nephew while my sister’s husband carried my niece. My other brother suggested they go to the nearest hospital to better check up on the wound in the little girl’s head.

My nephew, who was standing in front of both families at that time, started to giggle. I thought, “What on earth did the kid just do?” It was as if he was provoking the adults.

Source: pixabay.com

The Truth About Tommy

My sister-in-law was starting to panic. She hugged my nephew so tightly. Surprisingly, the boy laughs embarrassingly. That is where all my confusion and disbelief went up in my head. I told my brother to handle his son properly as the kid seemed to like hurting others. I thought, why is the boy enjoying the pain and seeming to be having fun while adults around are worried and distressed?

That’s when he told me that his son Tommy was autistic.

I was stunned because I never really thought that mental illnesses run in our family. I asked my brother how did he know and what had happened. His wife then butted in and told me she experienced a complication while pregnant with my nephew. She didn’t expect it would cause her son’s mental health problems. They didn’t know Tommy was autistic not until a week before our mom’s birthday when he got diagnosed with the condition.

I felt sad for the parents, both my brother, and sister. The situation must have been so hard for them. Instead of us continuing the celebration, my younger sister’s family was at the hospital trying to comfort their little girl while having stitches. My older brother was dealing with his son helping him to calm down as the boy was about to have an emotional outburst.

Source: pixabay.com

The Confrontation

I volunteered to take my brother to the hospital to see my niece so he could also talk to our sister. When we arrived there, my brother apologized for his son’s behavior. He was apologetic and even offered to pay for his niece’s hospital bills. Fortunately, my sister was calm and reassured my older brother that everything was okay. My brother was relieved to know that she understood the situation.

I went to my sister and asked her. How come you didn’t react violently when in front of you was your child bleeding in the face? My sister just nodded and smiled at me. I asked her if she knew Tommy was autistic, and she said no. She explained that she just knew about it a while ago when our brother told her about his son’s condition.

However, she said that if it weren’t for Tommy being her nephew, the reaction would have been different. She might have scolded or hit him or tended to fight with our brother. But then she said the good thing about the incident is she realized that as a parent, seeing her kid get hurt does not give her the right to judge the other kid immediately.

I could never be proud enough of my siblings.

Source: pixabay.com

Insights And Takeaway

Just like handling spouse with autism, adults/parents must hold onto their patience and learn about the other kid’s condition first. Like Tommy, it is not his fault. He was autistic, and he needed a better understanding. The boy needs everyone’s patience as he is also trying to figure out his mental illness.

Wouldn’t it be nice if we were all like my younger sister, who does not react out of the spur of the moment? Or be like my apologetic brother who tries his best to understand his kid’s needs? If you, or you know someone who is suffering from autism disorders, you may refer them to talk with a licensed professional for they can provide proper treatments for autism.

Children within the autism spectrum experience stressors and problems like other children and adults. But sometimes, these indicate mental health issues. Mental health counselors can help your kids deal with and face these problems. They will also teach your child healthy coping mechanisms to help them manage their mental health issues.

To learn more about how mental health counselors can help, we listed these common mental health problems with you. We will also share with you the different ways that professionals work with them.

To learn more about how mental health counselors can help, we listed the following common mental health problems for you. We will also share with you the different ways that professionals work with them.  

Specific Phobias

There are several types of anxiety disorders affecting children with autism. Research shows that about 40 percent of people with this disorder are affected by specific phobias. This disorder is characterized by an irrational and overwhelming fear of objects or situations. Usually, there is no real danger associated with the distress. However, they still make your child experience anxiety and, sometimes, avoidance.

The other symptoms of specific phobias include:

• Immediate feeling of intense panic and fear when facing or thinking about the source of the phobia.
• Increasing anxiety when near the object of fear.
• Inability to perform when facing the object of fear
• Physical symptoms like excessive sweating, tightness of the chest, and difficulty breathing
• Tantrums, clinginess, and crying

If you notice these signs, it might be helpful for you to take your child to a mental health counselor. They can help your kid process their feelings and understand where these fears come from. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and exposure therapy are treatment methods used to deal with this problem. Counselors can also teach parents how to deal with panic attacks among their children.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized anxiety disorder is another anxiety disorder common to children with autism. It manifests through excessive worrying about everyday events and experiences. Often the worries and stress are disproportionate to the actual causes of these anxieties. 

Rules and routines help children with autism. However, the threat and worries from their anxieties may feel too much. It may even disrupt their daily functions. Unlike specific phobias, there is no apparent reason for the troubling thoughts and feelings. It is also sometimes unclear why the anxiety attacks occur. These can be troubling for your kid, especially if they also have trouble expressing themselves.

Sometimes, it is not easy to recognize generalized anxiety disorder. Anxiety often manifests in uncommon ways. Here are some symptoms that you should look out for:

• Restlessness
• Fatigue and sleep disturbance
• Irritability
• Muscle tension

A mental health counselor will help your child voice and understand the troubling thoughts and emotions. They can use cognitive-behavioral therapy to modify these consuming thoughts and behaviors. Mental health professionals can also prescribe medications and other kinds of treatments for autism and other anxiety disorders. This is for managing the effects of generalized anxiety disorder.

Social Anxiety Disorder

People with autism face social challenges daily. Some of them learn scripts to say in certain events and settings. Yet, they still have trouble gauging other complex social interactions.  Children with this condition also commonly experience another anxiety disorder called social anxiety disorder.

People with social anxiety disorders may share similar symptoms with those on the autism spectrum. An example of this is avoidance of stimuli. However, we need to understand that it differs from case to case.  An example would be Asperger’s syndrome, which is still under the autism spectrum. The difference is that the diagnosis of Asperger’s does not include anxiety. 

Social anxiety disorder gives irrational feelings of fear and worries in social situations. Children affected with this condition become uncomfortable with other people watching and judging them. They often think that their actions are embarrassing for themselves and others. This adds to their stress since they already find it hard to understand and interpret social cues. 

Mental health counselors can help your children with their social interactions. One method is social skills training. This kind of therapy teaches patients to learn and practice specific skills in a controlled environment. Therapists break down social practices into steps, so children can better understand them. 

Depression

A meta-analysis of studies about depression in people in the spectrum suggests that they are four times more likely to suffer from this condition. However, it is harder to notice the symptoms among children with autism. This is because they show minimal changes in facial emotion. 

Children with autism may also find it difficult to express their emotions. Sometimes, we may not even recognize and know if they are thinking about hurting themselves. So, it is essential to familiarize ourselves with the other symptoms of depression. These include:

• Sudden changes in appetite and sleep
• Sudden loss of weight
• Decreased motivation in doing activities they typically enjoy
• Overfatigue
• Agitation, inattentiveness, and anxiety

Sometimes, depression also comes from anxiety and other feelings that our young ones experience outside the home. For example, bullying in schools may result in trauma, social isolation, and loneliness. Unfortunately, we cannot constantly monitor our kids’ activities outside. But we can always reach out to their peers or teachers and mental health counselors if we notice the symptoms.

Mental health counselors can provide social support to your child. They may also use a modified version of cognitive behavioral therapy to assist your young one. This means using visual aids to explain abstract concepts and adopting a predictable routine during treatment. 

Children with autism struggle more because of the challenges that they face that others do not deal with. As parents, it is our role to help them deal with these additional worries. Fortunately, we are not alone in caring for our young ones. Mental health counselors can help with the problems that our children face. They will also prepare us for how we can help at home when our children need our help.

What is the broad range of ASD? Who can have autism? How can it impact someone’s life? Do people with ASD live normally? Does autism require early intervention? Who treats ASD? Let’s discuss the mental condition here.

Adolescents And Autism

Knowing how challenging adolescence can be, it is normal for any parent to worry about their teenager. When you have a child with ASD, you may feel even more anxious thinking about their future. Their development delays. Their nonverbal communication, social communication, and interaction are unclear. They seldom engage in eye contact. How will autistic children traverse this complex world during their brain development? Will an adolescent with the spectrum be able to take care of themselves and enjoy life at the same time?

The good thing is that counseling for both parents and teens is now available for autism spectrum disorder and in various forms, research shows. But note that some treatments for ASD can only accommodate the latter and might not aid childhood disintegrative disorder or fragile x syndrome. Parents of autistic children must provide support for their needs.

Preparing For Adulthood

What entails autism? Why is autism in teens and adolescents an important subject to tackle? And how do parents manage their teens? Here, we will discuss more on how it is living with children with ASD, how it affects their lives, and the genetic factors related to it.

According to the American Psychiatric Association and National Disease Control and Prevention Agency, puberty will be a different experience for each person, even for adolescents with spectrum disorders like autism spectrum disorder, influenced by various risk factors. It is a time for teens with ASD to use their strengths and develop the language skills they need in their daily lives. It is not just about body and hormonal changes for people diagnosed with autism or ASD. Being a teen with autism and preparing for adulthood can be an overwhelming experience. Teens with autism have to adapt to changes in their routine, environmental factors, facial expressions and demands all at once. People with ASD require significant support, patience, and diligence.

Most adolescents will have memories and experiences that made them into the adults they are now. This is not the same for those with ASD. Other children with autism have different experiences and unusual reactions from those their age. Your child with autism may not have the usual relationships as he was growing up.

What about adolescents with autism?
Different counseling strategies are available for common questions parents have:

• What is it like managing typical teenage rebellion with ASD and other issues in a child’s behavior?
• Will adolescents with autism understand the importance of personal hygiene or picking out the right clothes?
• How do autistic teens with social difficulties make friends in high school?
• Will adolescents with ASD handle adult responsibilities, like housekeeping and managing bills, well?

Social Skills Training For Teens With Autism

Some teens with ASD and other characteristics may have difficulties in social situations. Teens with mental health issues such as autism may find it even more challenging as they need to communicate with unfamiliar people. Social communication skills training will help in counseling autistic teens with basic social rules. The counselor will help autistic adolescents with ASD

develop social communication skills, understand social norms, and solve common problems. The behaviors listed are just a few of the behaviors people with ASD exhibit.

Social skills training is done either individually or in a group. Counselors will help teens with autism pick up non-verbal cues. This will help autistic teens to develop social thinking as they see other people’s perspectives. This will also enable teens with ASD to practice their social skills with the guidance of a counselor.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy for teens with autism who have difficulty adapting to a situation, especially those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This counseling technique focuses on a person’s thoughts and feelings as it affects their behavior. It teaches autistic teens with ASD to replace maladaptive thoughts with more positive ones.

The CBT process begins with identifying the negative thoughts affecting an autistic person’s behavior. Counselors may also teach relaxation techniques for anxiety in teens and adolescents with ASD. The goal of CBT is to teach conscious and effective coping strategies. These strategies become easier for an adolescent with autism over time.

Group Activities

As children become older, they develop a sense of autonomy. The generation gap becomes more evident, and suddenly, your teen with autism would rather spend time with their peers than with you. Under the supervision of a counselor, your teen with ASD can model their peer’s behavior. In the presence of others, your teenager may be more motivated to learn and participate. Autism is a condition that can effectively be managed through group activities. Autistic people can improve by participating in activities that encourage social interaction with others.

Group therapy focuses on specific skills and hobbies. Some group therapies aim to improve sibling or classmate relationships. Exposing children with autism to different people will help them form their perspectives.

Independent Living Skills Training

It’s impractical to give your full paying attention and efforts to your child with ASD. But soon, they will need skills to help them stand on their own. Adolescence is the best period to teach them basic life skills to get them to function on their own. This will help teens with autism engage in more activities at home and in the community.

Just like with social skills, adolescents can learn life skills through education and guided practice. Learning more complex activities is also important for children and teens with autism spectrum disorder ASD. Some examples are maintaining the house, driving, and walking around the community. Teens with ASD will be guided to do these activities until they can manage by themselves.

Transitioning From School To The Real World Setting

According to the Centers for Disease Control experts and developmental and behavioral pediatrics teams, adolescents attend school to learn knowledge, skills, and repetitive behaviors in preparation for the bigger world outside, including those with attention deficit hyperactivity challenges. Not all adolescents learn these things easily like most, and this may be the case for those with autism. Adolescents with autism may benefit from specialized services to address the challenges of socializing within the autism spectrum disorder, considering potential risk factors, with their peers and future colleagues.

It’s important for teens with ASD to start while they are young. One strategy is to have their non-autism-diagnosed peers mediate their interactions. Another is to supervise adolescents with autism to build a peer network with similar interests. Adolescents can also be exposed to work and other practices to give them an idea of their future life.

According to Centers for disease control experts and developmental and behavioral pediatrics teams, autism is a condition that needs awareness and attention. If you are the parent of a child with an autism spectrum, learning more about dealing with autism and strategies for your child to tackle his condition more effectively is tremendously beneficial in different ways. Explore websites that offer valuable information about autism spectrum disorder using functional cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Early Signs Of ASD?

Early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can include delays in speech and social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty making eye contact.

What Are Some Symptoms Of The Mental Health Condition That Parents And Caregivers Can Look For?

Symptoms of the mental health condition associated with ASD, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), may include hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Parents and caregivers should look for signs of these behaviors.

Are There Treatments Available For The Spectrum Disorder?

Yes, there are treatments available for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including behavioral therapies, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes medication. Early intervention is crucial for the best outcomes.

What Is The Difference Between Autism And Asperger’s Disorder?

Autism and Asperger’s disorder are both on the autism spectrum, but Asperger’s is typically characterized by milder social and communication difficulties and no significant language delay. However, in the current diagnostic criteria, Asperger’s is no longer a separate diagnosis.

Why Do Children With ASD Have Difficulty Learning In A Regular Classroom Setting?

Children with ASD may struggle in a regular classroom setting due to challenges in social interaction, sensory sensitivities, and difficulty with transitions and communication. Specialized support and individualized education plans can help.

What Are The 3 Main Symptoms Of ASD?

The three main symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are impaired social interaction, repetitive behaviors or restricted interests, and communication difficulties.

What Is An Autistic Person Like?

Autistic individuals can vary widely in their characteristics and abilities. Some may excel in specific areas like math or music, while others may have challenges in social interactions. It’s essential to recognize the diversity within the autism community.

What Is Autism Caused By?

The exact cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not fully understood. It is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

How Do They Test For Autism?

Autism is typically diagnosed through clinical evaluation and assessments by healthcare professionals, including developmental pediatricians and child psychologists. Observations and standardized tests are often part of the evaluation process.

What Age Does Autism Appear?

Autism can appear as early as in the first few years of a child’s life, usually by age 2. Early signs may include delays in communication and social interaction.

What Are The 12 Signs Of Autism?

Autism signs may include difficulties with social interaction, repetitive behaviors, language delays, sensory sensitivities, and intense focus on specific interests. A healthcare professional can provide a comprehensive evaluation for a diagnosis.

Can Autism Be Treated?

While there is no cure for autism, early intervention and various therapies can help individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) improve their communication, social skills, and overall quality of life.

Is It Normal For 2 Year Old Not To Talk?

While children develop at different rates, it’s generally expected that a 2-year-old should have some basic language skills and be able to communicate in simple words or phrases. If there are concerns about speech development, it’s advisable to consult with a pediatrician or speech therapist.

How Do You Confirm Autism?

Autism is confirmed through a comprehensive evaluation conducted by healthcare professionals, including assessments of developmental milestones, behavior, communication, and social interaction.

How Do I Know If I Am A Little Autistic?

If you suspect you may have characteristics of autism, it’s essential to seek a professional evaluation by a psychologist or healthcare provider specializing in autism diagnosis. They can provide a formal assessment and guidance based on your individual needs and experiences.

Being left alone in a trailer by my mother since I was 12 years old and needing to fend for myself for years before a social worker could put me in the foster care system was brutal. It was the worst experience that I would never wish for anyone to have. I was too young to work, so I had to look for leftover food at the dumpsters behind restaurants for months. Sometimes, the neighbors would take pity on me and give me bread, but they were dirt poor like me, so it did not happen as often as I hoped. Of course, as I lived in a trailer park, it meant that I got exposed to people doing shady stuff, which mostly involved drug abuse and selling.

How I never got tempted to try snorting coke or at least smoking pot always astounded people who heard my life story for the first time. After all, when such activities were too common in your neighborhood, and you did not have an adult in your life to tell you what NOT to do, it was easy to ride the tide. My best guess was that the social worker saved me from all that before I needed actual saving.

Once I went to foster care, I got lucky in finding an elderly couple who wanted to adopt me after I stayed with them for months. If you must know, adoption was rare for older foster kids. I did not have any known relatives to counter my foster parents’ case, so I became legally adopted on my 14th birthday.

Living The Dream

I was technically the elderly couple’s only child, and they doted on me in every way possible. If they saw me looking at something for more than a few seconds at the mall, they would ask, “Would you like us to get that for you?” If I seemed unhappy, they would worry as any parent should. 

In truth, I was not interested in a lot of material objects. It was enough for me to have a smartphone and a computer. The only thing I actually requested from my adoptive parents was to allow me to study counseling after high school. As expected, they gave me their full support, but Mom curiously asked why I wanted to take up counseling instead of other degrees.

“I am lucky to have new parents like you, but I still want to go back to the trailer park someday and offer counseling to substance abusers and hopefully help them turn their lives around,” I replied. 

How long do you have to go to school to be a drug counselor? 

 A drug counselor spends the same number of years – at least six – at school as any counselor. The only difference is that they have chosen to specialize in substance abuse.

How long does it take to get a CADC? 

 If you want to become a certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADC), you need to allocate 270 hours of your time to attend various related courses. On top of that, you are required to complete an internship for at least 3,000 hours. All these may take place within six months or longer. 

What are the eight practice dimensions of addiction counseling? 

• Clinical Evaluation: The first step is to screen and assess the patient’s condition to ensure that they qualify for addiction counseling. 
• Treatment Planning: When it becomes evident that they can avail addiction counseling, the counselor will plan how long they should receive treatment, what kind of counseling they should get, etc.
• Referral: In this step, the counselor figures out what treatments they cannot provide in the facility and refer the patient to mental health professionals who can provide those.
• Service Coordination: It is also essential for the counselor to coordinate with the patient and their loved ones and other concerned individuals regarding the upcoming treatment. Doing so guarantees that everyone is on the same page, which increases addiction counseling’s success rate.
• Counseling: The actual counseling takes place at this point. The counselor will most likely recommend a one-on-one session to the patient to ensure that they can feel comfortable opening up about their problem. Over time, they may suggest group counseling and introduce the patients to others with the same issues.
• Education: The mental health professional aims to educate everyone involved in the patient’s life regarding addiction and its symptoms. 
• Documentation: Any progress that the patient makes every session needs to be recorded in written form. This way, the future psychologists or counselors they work with will know their mental status.
• Professional/Ethical Responsibilities: It is among the counselor’s responsibilities to assess what symptoms or other issues they cannot treat and be honest about. They don’t try to fix such problems; instead, they help the patient look for another professional who can help them.

How long does it take to become an LCDC? 

 Becoming a licensed chemical dependency counselor requires you to spend 270 hours studying for it. Then, 135 out of those 270 hours must be focused on chemical dependency courses.

Can a felon be a drug counselor? 

 The answer depends on which state you live in. If you are in California, for instance, felons and other criminals can become drug counselors. However, many states do not allow that, especially if you have been newly acquitted for your crimes.

How do I get CAADC? 

 To get a CAADC certification, you must present a master’s degree in any mental health profession (preferably behavioral science) and complete alcohol and drug counseling courses. After that, you need to pass the IC&RC test and work for at least 4,000 hours in your desired field.

What can a CADC do? 

 A CADC helps addicted individuals figure out why they have developed an addiction in the first place. Most of the time, they sort of know the reason, but they are in denial about it.

How do I get CCAPP certified? 

 The first thing that CCAPP will ask you before getting certified is a high school diploma. Once you pass the initial assessment, you can enroll at their accredited programs related to ethics, counseling skills, communication, etc. This is a requirement for everyone, even for individuals who apply for certification after getting their bachelor’s or master’s degree.

What does CADC III stand for? 

 CADC-III stands for the highest level of certification that you can get as an alcohol and drug counselor.

How difficult is it for a felon to get a job? 

 The level of difficulty depends on how long it has been since you got convicted of a felony. If it is relatively new, you may struggle to find a company that will accept you without looking at your criminal record. Despite that, more companies try not to discriminate against felons and other criminals and hire them based on their skills.

Can felons become social workers? 

 Yes, felons can technically become social workers. They can apply for a license in their state, but the approval depends on the type of felony they have committed. Some also conduct a criminal background assessment. 

If you genuinely want to become a social worker, you may get a California license, where they have pretty relaxed rules regarding who can be certified or not.

What is a CDCA certification?

The Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) certification is the first accreditation type you should get to become a chemical dependency counselor.

Final Thoughts

The road to professional counseling took almost a decade of studying. No matter how challenging it was, though, my adoptive parents did not cease to support and encourage me to continue following my noble dreams. As of 2020, I already got the certifications required to become a substance abuse counselor and started to offer free counseling at impoverished communities throughout the country.

 

Autism can be a lot of stuff because it has many symptoms. Quite possibly, a person’s condition tends to be different from other autistic individuals. There is no exact early diagnosis of its condition because people feel and experience different behaviors and mental illness responses. They have different triggers, and they deal with things differently. The condition is not just about an individual who seems unable to talk, act, and behave in a normal way. There are more than meets the eye in their cognitive impairments, mental health, and overall well-being, and there are many things you may not know about autism.

There Is No Possibility To Outgrow Autism

Autism stems from the changes in people’s brain development. It is not something someone can outgrow over time because it is a lifelong condition that needs proper lifelong care and assistance. Though (mental illness) ASD affects children and young adults’ lives, it does not mean they cannot make significant improvements. With the appropriate services, medication, cure for autism and treatments for autism, autistic can improve their social and language abilities over time and help them speak fluently.

Vaccines Do Not Cause Autism

Funny that some individuals believe that vaccines cause autism. This is actually one of the most common misconceptions about autism.  But the truth is, it is 100% categorically incorrect. There are so many studies in this area, and all results end up finding not a single trace of any association between autism and vaccinations. Vaccines are specifically made for preventable diseases such as measles, influenza, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, and so on. It is one of the few cost-effective interventions that are successful in keeping up with children’s public health demands.

Not All Special Kids Have Savant Skills

Many of us believe that when people are mentally disabled, they automatically possess and demonstrate a specific ability in a far or excess average. Yes, quite autistic child have special skills such as painting, math, and problem-solving abilities that can come pretty much extraordinary. However, not all autistics are like that. In fact, these special abilities only apply to a small portion of individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Autistics Are Emphatic

Autism by some means has problems in recognizing subtle communicational cues. These include body language, voice pitch and tones, and so on. Autistics somehow cannot relate when a person is angry or upset. But when emotional communications are done directly towards them, they become emphatic. They feel empathy when other people show sadness and loneliness. They recognize emotional needs.

Autistics Can Have A Great Sense Of Humor – The idea that autistics are too sensitive is false. The truth is, autistics actually have a lot of sense of humor. Autistic individuals understand a joke and can come up with one as well. It is entirely unacceptable to assume that they can no longer appreciate a humorous conversation because they are somewhat socially incapable of dealing with others. It is essential to consider that autistics are also capable of having a funny character.

Autistic Can Have Quality Friendship – Children diagnosed with ASD indeed has significant difficulties with social interaction. There is anxiety everywhere, which sometimes makes them feel like making friends is a struggle. Autistics suffer from direct communication and eye contact. That is why they often choose not to express themselves to avoid confusion and judgments. However, their social skill problems do not mean they lack the desire for quality friendships. Contrary to that, autistics like to socialize, though it could mean differently.

Autistics Are Not Violent – Often, nearly half of the misinformation tells an early identification that autistics are violent. Do not be fooled by that. No evidence can support the claim that autistics are more violent than the rest of the population. They do not necessarily express their unwanted emotions through a volatile rage. Yes, their spectrum disorder may cause them a sudden outburst, but it is not at all related to the intent of harming other individuals.

Not All Autistic Are Intellectually Disabled – We all know that quite a couple of people with autism have intellectual disabilities. However, it does not count everyone. Just because autistics have social communication issues, that does not mean they are no longer capable of critical thinking and problem-solving. In fact, they are smart and intelligent in their ways. It requires a different disorder assessment that does not rely too much on communication skills.

Autistics Can Maintain A Healthy Romantic Relationship – Contrary to the beliefs, a child with autism spectrum disorder can have a happy and healthy relationship. Just like the rest of the community, they understand the need for intimate connection. Yes, there are quite a few people in the spectrum who chooses not to engage in a romantic relationship. But that does not mean autistics are not capable of having one. Adults and children with autism spectrum disorder can form a connection and bond with the opposite sex, and they can keep it.

Every individual with a spectrum disorder is different. They are full of their unique talents and personalities. Thus, their significant challenges and needs also vary. The contributing factors and guidelines for autistic conditions rely on understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are 5 interesting facts about autism?

What most people don’t know about autism?

What are 3 interesting facts about autism?

What is the weakness of autism?

Which parent carries the autism gene?

What is good about being autistic?

What is the hardest part of being autistic?

What do people with autism think?

What is the hardest autism?

What random things do people with autism do?

Do autistic people know they are autistic?

Why is autism so common now?

Does autism count as a developmental disability?

What are the 3 main causes of autism?

Is ADHD a part of autism?

Dealing with autism now that I am a teenager is quite different from when I was a child. Maybe that is because, in some instances, I can already identify some of the emotions that once bothered me. I have an impression of what I am dealing with, and somehow I understand the risk of my psychological condition. That being said, there is something I know I can and still can’t do. That is why there are specific people who guide and support me through the life challenges caused by autism. That is none other than my family.

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Walking Through The Experience

At times, I can stay calm. I can have a proper conversation with people around me, especially when I am taking my medications. I can pretty much interact with my friends and family like an average individual. I can understand a couple of jokes, and I can ride with it. I can make some jokes myself too. However, things escalate when I sense triggers. Every time something catches my attention, I lose all the focus. I become more drawn to things that are not supposed to be a big deal. These include flashing lights, unexpected noise, and unusual items. It is pretty much stuff like that. I get too excited and extremely overwhelmed about everything that surrounds me.

Whenever I am having some trigger issues, my family keeps on talking to me. My family tries their best to get my attention so that I can manage to stay in line with my emotions and actions. But there are times that they leave me alone. Perhaps that is because some of my triggers are not that alarming at some point. My family ensures that I listen to them attentively so that I can avoid further emotional turmoil. Honestly, I know it is not easy for them to control their emotions as well. But when I am having a difficult time understanding myself, they try not to cause any additional damage to the situation.

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The Unexpected Turn Of Events

Teenage autism can get out of hand sometimes. When I sense the change in my emotional pattern, I feel the agitation rising quickly. That explains why when I can’t seem to control myself, I start fidgeting, thumping my feet, shaking my hands, and continually changing my facial expression. In some unfortunate instances, when I am experiencing a total loss of physical control over my body, I start to bump my head and eventually hurt myself.

When I reached the point where I no longer want to listen to anyone, it becomes a real problem. It is like I can become a different person in just a few seconds. There are too many emotions that I cannot contain anymore. And sometimes, it becomes entirely difficult to be in charge of my behaviors. I always scream, cry, and throw tantrums like a 6-year-old kid who wants to have candies. I can’t breathe, and all I think about is the changing patterns I don’t want to experience. I get angry over nothing. There are instances that when my family tries to comfort me, I tend to react more viciously.

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I know it is hard for my family to see me in that specific situation. And as much I don’t want them to worry about it, there is pretty much nothing I can do to stop. My parents and my siblings often tell me that things are going to be okay. But I can’t seem to convince myself that what they are saying is true. I wouldn’t say I like it when I am at my worst and having a meltdown because I seem to be a different person. To top it off, I hate it most because it makes me unintentionally hurt my loved ones.

Things I Am Thankful For

It is not always that I do not listen to what my family tells me every time I am having a meltdown. But I won’t lie. It hurts me to see them trying so hard not to show their exhaustion and frustrations towards the things I do. Usually, when they try and help me get through my emotional dilemma, I feel bad for them. They do not deserve to experience my uncontrollable mood swings. But regardless of my condition, my family always ensures that I get to be comfortable with myself. They always find time to encourage me to take a deep breath, and often, that somehow resolves my emotional stress. Though I know, my meltdown will soon start to repeat itself after a couple of hours.

Source: pixabay.com

I am just so thankful for my family’s support, patience, and unconditional love. Without those things, I might probably look at life the other way around. So, for the well-being of my family, I will continue to try my best to manage my mental situation in the best way possible.

Routines faced interruptions because of the quarantine imposed by the government due to the coronavirus pandemic. Kids and teens alike are affected by this sudden change, especially children with autism. 

Adapting a new routine will help children with autism relax and cope with the unstable environment. And here are some fun and learning activities you can do with them to keep them entertained while in quarantine.

Household Chores

One of the entertaining things you can do with your child with autism is household chores! Yes, cleaning the house, making their beds, and doing the dishes are some activities that can entertain your child.

Not only do these tasks distract them, but it can also be their outlet to release their stress from being locked at home. Incorporate a cleaning day in their schedule and let your child destress while helping you with the household chores.

Arts And Crafts

Another fun and relaxing activity that you can do with your child involves arts and crafts. Painting, drawing, and creating things are some art activities that you can do at home.

Children with autism often struggle with verbal and social communication but are good at thinking visually and in pictures. Crafting with your child not only entertains them but also helps them have their medium for expressing their emotions.

Also, this can motivate them to learn and create while having fun. Your kid may also discover their artistic side and find a new hobby that they’ll love.

Online Learning

One of the critical activities that have been affected by this pandemic is learning. But that should not be the case. Going to school may not be possible now, but education can continue even at home.

Also, including online schooling in your child’s routine may give them back the sense of control that being in quarantine may have taken away. 

Take note, though, that what is happening in the world is very anxiety-inducing, especially for your child with autism. So, be ready to assist them with their education and take on the role of teachers in guiding them with their tasks.

Christopher Lynch Ph.D. shares, “Provide accommodations to address areas of struggle, modify tasks to suit each child’s unique learning style, alternate frustrating tasks that play to strengths, and provide with breaks as necessary.”

At the start, you may need your child to talk with their homeroom teacher to help them get used to the new setup. Remember that patience is the key to an excellent home-learning experience with your child.

Science Experiments

Another engaging learning activity that you can with your child is science experiments. Your child learns visually, and what better way to teach them scientific principles than by trying them at home!

The internet has a lot of fun and safe ideas for what you can do with your child. And for a more visual resource, you can look up experiments on YouTube. Some science activities will also be engaging sensory experiences for your kid.

Playing With Playdough

One of the best aspects of play dough is its flexibility. It can be anything that your child wants it to be. Another excellent use of playing with playdough is that you can use it to practice your kid’s communication skills. You can ask to talk about what they are making and tell stories about it.

You can also make this task a fine motor practice for your child by letting them squeeze it, roll it, pound it, and maybe make it into a clay model of your family. However, you may need to test what play dough will be more suitable for your kid.

Dancing And Workout

Another stress-relieving activity that you can with your child and other members of your family is exercising. YouTube has lots of videos to guide you and your kids in making your routine. You may also incorporate dancing in your workout and have fun while sweating out. 

Another fun way to engage them in these activities is to let them have a choice. You may make a choice board filled with these enjoyable tasks and have them pick the one that they like to do for the day.

This pandemic and our new normal may be challenging to adapt to, but that does not mean that you cannot have fun with your child while in quarantine.